Many say that this is the best place to begin discovering Montreal. While the modern architecture may not be typical of a history museum, the real reason to come here is to hop in the elevator and head underground. Here, an archaeological dig has revealed the foundations of the city's original settlement, established in the 17th century. You can follow the development of Montreal from its days as a fledgling colony and on up through the present day to an exhibit showing the city's multicultural lifestyle. During the summer, the museum hosts numerous period fairs and festivals.

Located in the heart of Vieux-Montréal, the Pointe-à-Callière Museum of Archaeology and History is Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the summer, the museum is open Mondays as well. Admission is $20 CAD (around $18 USD) for adults and $7 CAD (just over $6 USD) for children ages 6 to 12; kids ages 5 and under can enter for free, and discounts are available for seniors and students. For more information, visit the museum's website.